British Rail Class 504
The British Rail Class 504 was a unique type of electric multiple unit that ran on 1200 V DC third rail with side-contact current collection. The type was used only between Manchester and Bury.
| British Rail Class 504 | |
|---|---|
 A Class 504 train at Manchester Victoria station just weeks before closure for conversion to the Metrolink light rail system. | |
| In service | 1959-1991 |
| Manufacturer | BR |
| Number built | 26 sets power cars: M65436-M65461 driving trailers: M77157-M77182 |
| Formation | power car + driving trailer |
| Operator | British Rail |
| Specifications | |
| Car length | 133ft 3 1/2in |
| Width | 9ft 3in |
| Height | 12ft 7in |
| Maximum speed | 70mph 112 km/h |
| Weight | Total - 82 tons |
| Power output | sources disagree - see discussion page |
| Voltage | 1,200V dc side contact third rail |
| Gauge | standard gauge |
A northbound Class 504 train in northern Manchester just weeks before closure for conversion to the Metrolink light rail system. The preparatory earthworks for Metrolink's overhead wire supports can be seen on both sides of the tracks.
